Here’s a bold statement: Rangers might finally have found the leader they’ve been searching for in Kevin Muscat. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a former player with a reputation for toughness truly be the calming force this beleaguered club needs? Steven Smith seems to think so, and his candid admission about Muscat’s potential is turning heads. Let’s dive in.
As Rangers prepare to welcome Muscat as their new manager, it’s Steven Smith who’s stepping into the spotlight—at least temporarily. The Ibrox Under-19s coach will lead the team in their upcoming Premiership clash against Dundee United while the club finalizes Muscat’s appointment. And this is the part most people miss: Smith’s interim role isn’t just a formality; it’s a testament to his readiness to step up in a time of transition.
Muscat, an Australian football veteran, is set to sign a long-term deal as Russell Martin’s successor. But before he arrives, he’ll wrap up his season with Shanghai Port in China. This delay has left Smith in charge, a position he admits he didn’t expect to find himself in. When asked if he thought he’d end up in the dugout, Smith’s honest reply was, ‘Probably not.’ Yet, here he is, ready to lead a squad desperate for stability.
Smith’s connection to Muscat dates back to 2003, when a young Smith crossed paths with the then-experienced defender during Alex McLeish’s Treble-winning era. While their interactions were brief—Smith’s primary job was cleaning boots for the coaching staff—he recalls Muscat as ‘really pleasant’ with the younger players. Here’s the kicker: Muscat’s on-field reputation as a hard-nosed player contrasts sharply with Smith’s description of him off the pitch. Could this duality be exactly what Rangers need?
Rangers have cycled through a string of managers in recent years, each bringing a different style but failing to deliver consistent success. Smith reflects on this, noting, ‘We’ve had every type of manager, but the priority is always to win.’ The pressure to deliver trophies is relentless, and Smith believes Muscat’s character could be the missing piece. When asked if Muscat is the right fit, Smith’s response was telling: ‘Probably. It’s an interesting question.’
But here’s the controversial part: Is Muscat’s reputation as a no-nonsense player enough to translate into managerial success? Or will his approach alienate a squad already struggling for cohesion? Smith’s interim role gives him a unique perspective, and he’s determined to keep things ‘as normal as possible’ while leaning on the processes he trusts from his work with the Under-19s.
Looking ahead, Rangers face a crucial league game against Dundee United and a Europa League tie against Brann Bergen in Norway. For Smith, it’s a whirlwind experience, but he’s taking it ‘day by day’ with a clear goal: ‘We’ve got a game on Saturday that we need to go and win.’
Thought-provoking question for you: Do you think Muscat’s playing style and reputation will help or hinder his managerial tenure at Rangers? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate worth having!
